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A local child support organization that represents Nevada and Sierra counties was recognized at the state level.

Nevada County CEO Rick Haffey reported in his weekly memo that the California Department of Child Support Services recognized the state’s top performing local child support agencies for federal fiscal year 2012 at its statewide directors meeting Wednesday.

“We are proud of the hard work that all our counties perform daily,” said Support Services interim Director Kathleen Hrepich and former Director of Child Support Services for Sierra Nevada Regional Department of Child Support Services.

“Once each year, we recognize those counties that have exceeded the annual goals set for performance in the child support program. These top performers are to be especially commended, given the difficult economic conditions in which all child support professionals operate. Higher performance means more real dollars for California’s families and children.”

Interim Director Hrepich presented awards for local child support agencies with the top overall performance.

Sierra Nevada Regional DCSS (representing families in both Sierra and Nevada counties) performed fourth overall of all counties in the state of California and was recognized as a top performing local child support agency.

“Everyone in Child Support has been working hard to improve the child support experience for everyone in both Nevada and Sierra counties,” said Tex Ritter, director of Sierra Nevada Regional DCSS, in the memo. The hard work and dedication paid off for families in both counties. We specifically undertook a customer-centered approach and have embraced the needs of parents and children and were recognized by the state as one of the top performing child support agencies. We are very proud of our work.”

Free tax assistance

The Department of Child Support Services will be hosting free tax preparation assistance and efiling of simple returns (some restrictions apply) at scheduled drop-in clinics in January and February, and by appointment during regular business hours through March 2013, according to the county’s memorandum.

This service is being provided to promote community awareness of the Earned Income Tax Credit available to low to moderate income individuals and families earning less than $50,270 annually. You may be eligible for this credit even if you are not required to file an income tax return.

For more information, contact child services at 530-265-7124 or stop by the office at the Eric Rood Building, 950 Maidu Ave., Nevada City. The child services reception desk is located within the Department of Social Services office, entrance on the west end of the building.

County to use alternative method to reduce road ice

Steve Castleberry, director of Public Works, said Nevada County road crews are working to reduce ice on county roads.

Recently, the county has begun the use of a brine solution sprayed on the roads in the evening and early morning hours. The brine solution gives the roads a wet appearance but reduces icing, and also reduces the need for sanding the roads. The use of brine is expected to reduce the cost of purchasing and applying sand. This brine solution has been approved by Caltrans and is currently also used on state highways. For more information, contact the Department of Public Works at 530-265-1412.